What to Do When Your Roof Starts Leaking During a Storm in Las Cruces

Step 1: Put Safety First (Watch for Electrical Hazards)

Before worrying about belongings, move people and pets out of the affected area.

• Watch for ceiling sagging or large bulges—a water-logged ceiling can collapse unexpectedly.

Step 2: Control the Water Inside

• Move belongings: Quickly slide furniture, rugs, and electronics away from the drip path.
• Catch the water: Use buckets, trash cans, plastic storage bins, pots, or pans directly under the drip.
• Relieve a bulge (optional/only if safe): If water is pooling and bulging the ceiling, carefully poke a small hole in the center with a nail or screwdriver to allow controlled drainage into a bucket. This can prevent a larger collapse.

Step 3: If Safe, Reduce Water at the Source (From Inside)

Only do this if you can safely access the attic or crawl space without risk of falling or touching exposed wiring.

• Place a bucket or tub directly under the drip point on the deck.
• Lay down plastic sheeting or a tarp over insulation to channel water into containers.
• This won’t fix the leak, but it can slow the interior damage until the storm passes.

Step 4: Document the Damage for Insurance

Good documentation makes the claims process smoother. While the damage is fresh:

• Take photos and videos of the active leak, ceiling stains, and damaged flooring/furniture.
• Write down the date, approximate time, and what the weather was doing (wind, hail, etc.).
• Save receipts for fans, dehumidifiers, or emergency mitigation work.

Step 5: Call a Local Roofer as Soon as You Can

Once the leak is controlled, call a licensed, local contractor. Our team is ready to respond in Las Cruces when the weather clears.

• Be ready to share where the leak is and whether you see any obvious exterior damage.
• We prioritize emergency roof repair in Las Cruces, leak detection, and temporary tarping.

Step 6: Understand the Roofer’s Plan

A good roofer approaches storm leaks in two phases:

• 1. Emergency Protection: Temporary patches or tarping to stop water immediately.
• 2. Permanent Repair: Tracking the leak to its true source, and providing a clear repair or full replacement plan if the roof is aged.

Step 7: Dry Out the Interior Properly

After the leak is stopped, run fans and dehumidifiers in the affected rooms to reduce the risk of mold and long-term damage to insulation and wall cavities.